Gig Harbor Sister Cities

04/20/2026

04/04/2026

Here's an event in Tacoma that supports the Slavonian American Benevolent Society. Everyone is welcomed.

01/11/2026

This video was made by one of our partners to share information about Gig Harbor with our Croatian Sister City, Milna.

12/25/2025

From the Croatian Side of Christmas, Sretan Bozic'.

12/25/2025

And to all a good night.

12/23/2025

Are you dreaming of moving to Norway? The town of Vang wants you!
Read more here: https://bit.ly/4qqXH8U

12/15/2025

12/14/2025

🎄✨ What a magical night on the harbor! Yesterday Gig Harbor lit up the waterfront with its annual Lighted Boat Parade — a cherished holiday tradition hosted by the Gig Harbor Yacht Club that draws crowds down to the marina every winter.
Gig Harbor Now

This year, one special vessel stood out as the sole parade entry: the beautifully decorated fishing boat Veteran, adorned in festive lights and pride. ⚓✨

The Veteran isn’t just a pretty sight — it’s a piece of Gig Harbor maritime history. Built in 1926 by the Skansie Shipbuilding Company, she’s one of the classic purse seiners that helped define this community’s commercial fishing legacy. Today she’s lovingly preserved and operated by the Gig Harbor BoatShop as a working historic vessel and community resource.
Gig Harbor BoatShop

The Skansie family themselves are part of Gig Harbor’s DNA. Peter Skansie and his brothers immigrated from Sumartin on the island of Brač in Croatia in the late 1800s — bringing old-world craftsmanship, fishing skill, and shipbuilding know-how to Puget Sound. Their work helped build Gig Harbor into the vibrant maritime town we celebrate today.
Gig Harbor Official Website

Fun fact: Gig Harbor also celebrates close cultural ties with Croatia — including a sister-city connection with Milna on Brač — which reflects the deep roots Croatian immigrants like the Skansies have here.
Gig Harbor Official Website

Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the parade, support our historic waterfront, and celebrate our seafaring heritage! 🚤💡🇭🇷

11/19/2025

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